Barry Lawrence Kessel

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barry Lawrence Kessel who passed away peacefully, with his family by his side on March 20th at the age of 77.

Barry was a devoted husband of 56 years to his wife Donna. A proud and loving father, grandfather, and friend of many. He spent his entire life farming outside of St. Joseph’s, a life he took great pride in. Barry was known for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, and deep connection to the land and the cattle he cared for. His dairy and beef cows were an important part of his daily life, and he took great pride in tending to them with dedication and care. Farming was not just his livelihood—it was his passion and the foundation of the life he built for his family.

Barry cherished his time with his family and was very proud of all of his children and grandchildren. His favourite pastime was watching his grandchildren in their extra curricular activities, attending Pats games and he always enjoyed going for coffee, sharing stories and laughs with friends and family. His warm presence and easygoing nature made him someone people were always happy to be around.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Donna; his children, Michelle (Dean) Braumberger, Wendy (Fred) Nameth, daughter-in-law Kelly, and David (Rheann). He will also be fondly remembered by his grandchildren: Nick (Ashley), Cassandra, Jonah, Elizabeth, Emily, Elissa, Ryker and Claire. Also his sisters’ Maryann (Bill) Kuffner and Elsie (Dave) Shaw; his sisters-in-law, Christine Kessel and Sandy Sanderson; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Rick and Wendy Foley; many nieces and nephews; and by their beloved friends Margaret, Hughie and Kathy and neighbors, “from the top of the hill” Dennis and Bernice. As well as many other special family and friends.

Barry was predeceased by his son Trevor; his parents, Ralph and Martha (nee Schaeffer); his brother Dennis; father-in-law John Foley; mother-in-law Jean Playford; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Vicky and Rick Hall and nephew Joe Prokop.

Barry’s legacy lives on through his family, his love of farming, and the many lives he touched with his kindness and steady presence. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A special thank you to the nurses and doctors at the General and Pasqua Hospitals in Regina for their kindness and care in keeping him comfortable in his final weeks.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Barry’s life on Tuesday, March 31st at the Balgonie Multiplex, at 2:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pasqua Hospital Palliative Care Unit